JournalismAI Academy for Small Newsrooms

The Academy is designed for journalists and media professionals working in small newsrooms (fewer than 50 employees).

Fluency in English is required to take part in the Academy. 

For 2024, we are selecting 20 participants from Sub-Saharan Africa (includingCentral Africa, East Africa, Southern Africa, and West Africa) from GMT-1 to GMT+4.  

The ideal candidate already has a basic understanding of the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning, and works in a news organisation that has started exploring how to use these new technologies. 

Candidates with different newsroom titles will be considered but, in the selection process, priority will be given to candidates that demonstrate the ability to influence the strategic adoption of AI in their news organisation to tackle journalistic challenges. 

No coding skills are required to attend the Academy, nor are there any other technical requirements, other than a stable WiFi connection to participate in the live activities. We encourage journalists and media professionals from all backgrounds to apply.

The Academy is not for freelancers – you need to be part of a newsroom to benefit from the programme. The Academy is not for journalists based outside the Sub-Saharan Africa region. Finally, the Academy is not for journalists who are not fluent in English.

Applications are now closed. Sign up to our newsletter and be one of the first to know when we launch a new round of applications.

The deadline to apply for the JournalismAI Academy for Small Newsrooms is Wednesday, 24 July 2024, at 11:59 PM GMT.

The Academy is an 8-week fully-virtual programme, with six core modules, one introduction week, and one wrap-up week. Each module has a different focus:

MODULE #1 → What is AI and how is it used in journalism?

In this module, we will explore key concepts and definitions related to artificial intelligence, including machine learning, neural networks, and natural language processing/generation (NLP/NLG). Participants will gain a foundational understanding of AI and its applications in journalism.

MODULE #2 → TOOLS & APPLICATIONS

In this module, we will focus on exploring available AI tools and how to implement them in the journalistic process. We will examine case studies of successful AI implementations in journalism, and provide guidance on selecting and integrating AI tools into newsrooms.

MODULE #3 → DATA & TECHNOLOGY

In this module, we will focus on the importance of data and technology in AI implementation. We will discuss the types of data needed for AI processes and the tech infrastructure required to support them. Participants will also learn about data privacy and security concerns that must be addressed when implementing AI in journalism.

MODULE #4 →  Generative AI for journalism: Best Uses

In this module, we will focus on exploring generative AI tools and mastering their efficient use in practical scenarios. We will delve into the techniques and strategies for optimising these tools, specifically focusing on crafting effective prompts.

MODULE #5 → RISKS & CONCERNS

In this module, we will identify the risks and concerns associated with AI in journalism, such as bias, accountability, and transparency. Participants will learn about ethical considerations when using AI, and explore strategies for mitigating the potential harms of AI in journalism.

MODULE #6 → FROM IDEATION TO IMPLEMENTATION

In this module, we will focus on ideation, exploring the different possibilities and scenarios where AI can be applied to journalism. Through brainstorming sessions and group exercises, participants will develop new ideas for AI tools that can enhance and support their journalistic work.

The Academy will take place from 2 September to 11 October 2024.

The programme includes two sessions per week. Participants are expected to dedicate 4 hours per week to the programme, across the 8 weeks:

• Live presentations on Tuesday (90 minutes)

• Live workshops on Thursday (90 minutes)

• Assignment to complete individually before the following meeting (~60 minutes)

First and foremost, we ask participants to embrace the interactive and participatory nature of the Academy. The programme provides multiple opportunities to connect with experts as well as to develop a regional network of like-minded news innovators. 

If selected, you must commit to fully participate in the online sessions, to share your expertise with the other participants, and to approach the experience with enthusiasm, curiosity, and respect for your fellow participants. Participation in all the activities outlined above is mandatory.

In the application process, we ask for a letter of commitment from the management of the organisation that a candidate will represent at the Academy. If selected, you will be asked to sign a letter of personal commitment, in which you commit to attending all sessions and actively participate in all course activities.

The Academy is coordinated by the JournalismAI team. Each module will be led by experts in the field of journalism and AI.  The complete list of instructors will be announced soon, so stay tuned and sign up for our newsletter to find out the full line-up of this year's Academy!

Participants will leave the Academy with a practical understanding of the opportunities and challenges offered by AI technologies, examples of successful implementation, and the tools to set up an action plan to guide the development of AI projects in their news organisations.

Through engaging presentations and interactive workshops, the programme aims to empower participant’s professional development and enable their organisations to access AI adoption and implementation. 

By the end of the programme participants will have:

• Improved their AI literacy and demystified AI buzzwords

• Gained new perspectives from a multicultural, interdisciplinary environment

• Improved understanding of the potential offered to journalism by AI technologies

• Learned new methods and skills to experiment and prototype new ideas

• Developed their thinking about the role of technology in journalism

• Learned about a set of AI-powered tools available for news organisations

• Developed a regional network of like-minded news innovators

Thanks to the support of the Google News Initiative, the programme is entirely free for selected participants.

Glad you asked! JournalismAI is a collaboration between Polis – the journalism think-tank at the London School of Economics and Political Science – and the Google News Initiative. Our mission is to empower news organisations to use artificial intelligence responsibly. 

Find out more about our activities on our website, and sign up for our newsletter.

If you have any questions about the JournalismAI Academy for Small Newsrooms, please contact our Academy Programme Officer, Lwazi Maseko, at Lwazi@journalismai.info.